UX Lead Salary in San Mateo, California

San Mateo is located in Silicon Valley. High demand and a steep cost of living influence UX Lead salaries in the area.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

$95,000 to $118,000

Average (per year)

$106,000

Entry positions support established product teams at mid-sized tech firms or startups.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

$119,000 to $142,000

Average (per year)

$130,000

Mid-level designers join fintech, SaaS, or biotech companies headquartered in the city.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

$143,000 to $162,000

Average (per year)

$152,000

Senior roles lead design for Bay Area unicorns or international firms with a San Mateo presence.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

$163,000+

Principal-level positions are found at global tech headquarters and well-funded startups.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

$50 - $75

per hour

Mid-level

$80 - $110

per hour

Senior

$120 - $160

per hour